Tinubu: Hosting the Commonwealth Games Is a Vision Africa Must Fulfil
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambition to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, calling it a long-held dream that must come to fruition.
In a message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Tinubu highlighted the historical significance of Nigeria’s bid, noting that no African country has ever hosted the Commonwealth Games. He stated that bringing the event to Nigeria would send a clear signal that Africa plays a central role in the Commonwealth’s future.
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Nigeria is expected to formally present its final bid to the Commonwealth Games evaluation committee on Wednesday. The delegation is led by Shehu Dikko, President of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC), and includes the Commission’s Director-General, Bukola Olopade.
Supporting the bid, President Tinubu declared, “It’s time for Africa,” and urged the Commonwealth to “complete the circle of unity.”
The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, features athletes from nations and territories, most of which were formerly part of the British Empire. The 2030 edition would mark a major milestone for Nigeria if the bid is successful.
Back in April, the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) confirmed that Nigeria had met the March 28, 2025 deadline to express its interest in hosting the event. Abuja, the nation’s capital, has been proposed as the host city.
Nigeria previously lost a bid for the 2014 Games to Glasgow, Scotland. However, the NOC believes the 2030 bid offers a chance to showcase Nigeria’s growth, promote international engagement, and strengthen its sports infrastructure.
The last time Nigeria hosted a large-scale multi-sport event was the African Games in Abuja in 2003.
Meanwhile, the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games will return to Glasgow, following the withdrawal of Australia’s Victoria state due to rising costs.
